Predictors of physical intimate partner violence against men in Uganda: A generalized structural equation modelling approach.

Abstract

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) against men is a significant but understudied public health issue in sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigates the predictors of physical IPV against men in Uganda by analyzing the complex direct and indirect pathways leading to violence. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design with secondary data from the 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS), a final sample of 2,625 ever-married/cohabiting men aged 15-54 was analyzed. Data was analyzed using Generalized Structural Equation Modelling (GSEM) to test mediation hypotheses. The study found prevalence of physical IPV (11.45%), which was directly driven by partner behavioral factors and indirectly by social economic factors. Results revealed that men were significantly more likely to experience physical IPV if their partners exhibited controlling behaviors with less (β=4.35, p=0.047), many (β=1.596, p<0.001) compared to those with no controlling behaviors or used alcohol (β=0.851, p<0.001). Men in polygamous unions were significantly more likely to experience physical IPV (β=0.359, p=0.027). On the other hand, educated men were significantly less likely to experience physical IPV with primary (β=-0.641, p=0.008). Secondary (β=-0.797, p=0.004). higher (β=0.804, p=0.013) compared to men with no education. Men in age group (45-54) were significantly less likely to experience physical IPV (β=-0.487, p=0.049) compared to (15-24) age group. Socioeconomic factors operated largely through indirect pathways. Education exhibited a graded protective effect: compared to men with no education, Primary (β=-0.875, p<0.001), Secondary (β=-0.999, p<0.001) and Higher (β=0.888, p<0.001) men were less likely to experience IPV, mediated by reduced partner alcohol use. Education on the other hand had a positive effect: men with Primary or Secondary education were more likely to experience IPV than those with No education (β=0.780, p=0.004), (β=0.808, p=0.005) respectively mediated by increased number of controlling behaviors. Wealth also showed a positive effect with Rich men being significantly more likely to experience physical IPV than the poor (β=0.306, p=0.027) mediated by many controlling behaviors. Polygamy (2+ wives) also showed a positive effect versus monogamy (β=0.383, p<0.001), with men in polygamous unions being more likely to experience IPV, mediated by partner alcohol use. Physical IPV against men is directly fueled by partner behaviors (control and alcohol use), and socioeconomic status exerts influence directly to a smaller extent and indirectly to a larger extent through these mediators. Interventions must therefore be integrated, focusing on economic empowerment, addressing female partner alcohol abuse, and challenging norms around controlling behaviors. This study provides a critical evidence base for the inclusion of men in IPV discourse and policy in Uganda.